SITE SELECTION

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Why can't you just renovate the existing Bracebridge site?

Renovating the existing site was deemed infeasible due to space limitations that prevent necessary expansions to meet modern healthcare standards and future growth. Additionally, renovations would take much longer (which has a cost impact), and significantly disrupt hospital operations, impacting patient care during construction. Building a new facility was found to be more cost-effective and better suited to meeting the community’s long-term healthcare needs.

What was the decision-making process around site selection, and who was included?

The site selection process involved over 200 engagement sessions with stakeholders, including community members, government partners, emergency services, healthcare partners, and Indigenous communities. Input from approximately 250 experts—hospital staff, physicians, volunteers, and patient advocates—was also gathered. Sites were evaluated based on accessibility, environmental impact, municipal services, and growth potential, with expert consultation from Urban Strategies Inc. The Town of Bracebridge supported Pine Street as their preferred site, aligning with the town’s strategic vision and planning objectives.

I thought the preferred site was Muskoka Beach Road, what changed?

Muskoka Beach Road was initially considered but ultimately rejected due to significant environmental constraints, including Provincially Significant Wetlands, which posed regulatory challenges. It was called the “preliminary preferred site” before the formal due diligence work had been done. The main access road would have been impacted by the provincially significant wetlands and required setbacks to avoid any environmental impact.

What about the Pine Street location makes it better?

Pine Street offers excellent accessibility near Highway 11, ensuring faster connectivity for emergency services. It avoids environmental challenges such as the provincially significant wetlands and required setbacks to avoid environmental impact, and supports community integration and future development within Bracebridge.

How does this location impact my care?

The Pine Street location enhances patient care by providing a purpose-built facility designed to meet modern healthcare standards, with improved accessibility for patients, families, and emergency services. The new hospital will include expanded surgical services, critical care services, and advanced diagnostic capabilities, while supporting long-term growth and adaptability to the community’s needs for the next 50 years.